IT might be the age of the hybrid, the pure EV and the plug-in, but the ICE age still has a place in many drivers' hearts.

By ICE, of course I'm referring to the Internal Combustion Engine. And nothing could be closer to the original definition of the term than the macho Toyota Supra - particularly in GR Pro six-speed manual form - as we have been witnessing.

Using the underpinnings and engine based on the current BMW Z4, it nevertheless has its own feel and character. In many ways, it feels like a modern iteration of say a Healey 3000, or Marcos 3.0-litre, for those with a good memory (or an awareness of motoring history).

Obviously it's a gutsy, powerful beast, but not absurdly so. With bragging power of 335bhp it out shoots a Boxster but falls well short of BMW M2, or one of the beefier F-Types.

But its ability to wrap around its driver and passenger and hurtle to 62mph in around four seconds and then to surge on to 100mph in little more than double that time is impressive enough for most of us. The manual box is short throw, but doesn't possess the slickest of actions. The clutch, fortunately, isn't heavy in the old-school way you might expect.

And it does feel seriously quick - quicker than the auto although the stats inevitably prove it to be marginally slower. Such is the effect of greater driver involvement and control in the Pro.

A small degree of weight saving has definitely added to the car's athleticism. And while it can't approach an Alpine's subtle delicacy it feels more manoeuvrable and playful than the standard Supra or the Z4.

The ride is salient virtue of the Supra - supple enough to be relaxed and comfortable over poor surfaces, but controlled and sufficiently stiff to defeat any temptation towards cornering roll or wallowing. The right balance.

While it's a restful, relaxed ride, there's nothing easy about clambering in or out of the Supra. This is the epitome of low-slung, with a high sill and a cutaway roofline, it's good practice for a trainee limbo dancer.

Once seated, driver and passenger are neatly installed in cosseting cockpit that's snug and yet roomy enough with good quality fitments and ample seat adjustment. There is, however, a shortage of place to stow bits and pieces like sunnies and phone without them rattling around the cabin when you get a wiggle on. The rear boot is surprisingly roomy, so a weekend away touring is not an issue.

Despite the abundant performance, the Supra's thirst proved surprisingly modest with an average of 31mpg.

Visibility is understandably limited from such a low vantage point, and the view rearwards is inevitably restricted by the rear pillars and the sloping roofline. The tailgate glass isn't fitted with a rear wiper so raindrops further obscure rear vision.